Mercedes J Karl

Because of her father’s career, Merci and her sister Nancy, attended a number of schools. Merci later attended Florida State University.

While living in Tallahassee she met and married the love of her life, Fred Karl who pre-deceased her. They had a family of seven children, sixteen grandchildren, and six great-grandchildren.

Merci was a Lifetime Member of the Board of Directors of the Tampa Bay Chapter of the American Red Cross. As a leadership volunteer, she chaired a number of committees at the local chapter and was active on the regional leadership committee.

Merci was an intelligent and caring person who was concerned, and supported causes that would benefit her community. She was loved and admired by many people who met her through her many activities. She recognized the differences of ethnicity, language and economic status, but what she saw was people and truly believed all persons should have the opportunity to achieve the highest level of their potential. She was a true humanitarian.

She was a wonderful mother, grandmother and friend and she will be remembered and missed by those whose lives she touched.

The family takes solace in knowing that she is reunited with Fred and their beloved pets. There will be a private service held at a later date. People wishing to honor Merci are asked to please consider donating to a charity of your choice in her memory.